Understanding how they work
Every electric current generates both an electric field and a magnetic field. These are two distinct physical phenomena. Do you know the difference?
Electric fields
- Electric fields are invisible.
- Electric fields are produced by electric voltage. Field intensity depends on the number of volts.
- Electric field strength is measured in volts per meter (V/m).
- Electric fields are easily reduced by physical obstacles such as trees or walls.
- Electric fields decrease rapidly with distance.
Did you know?
Want to know more?
Electricity is a natural phenomenon and it is found everywhere. And where there’s electricity, there are also electric fields.
Electric fields
Duration: 4 minutes 3 seconds
Magnetic fields
- Magnetic fields are invisible.
- Magnetic fields are produced by electric current. Field intensity depends on the number of amperes.
- Magnetic field strength is measured in microteslas (μT).
- Magnetic fields are not easily reduced by physical obstacles such as trees or walls.
- Magnetic fields decrease rapidly with distance.
Did you know?
Want to know more?
Our planet is permanently immersed in the natural magnetic field generated by molten metals in the Earth’s core. This magnetic field is a natural phenomenon that humans can observe in different ways.
Magnetic fields
Duration: 5 minutes